Heritage Line Anouvong Cruise Downstream 8 days: Huay Xai - Vientiane

Morning

In the morning, Heritage Line extends a warm welcome to guests at the Lao immigration office. After gathering all the passengers, we embark on a minivan journey to Huay Xai Pier, where the Heritage Line Anouvong awaits. Once preparations are complete, the captain charts the course of the enthralling 7-night voyage along the Upper Mekong.

As the cruise progresses towards its initial destination, our expert guide captivates with an intriguing lecture on the rich tapestry of Laos' diverse ethnic groups along the Mekong River. In the upcoming days, you'll immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures and traditions of these fascinating communities.

Afternoon

Our journey begins at Ban Pak Sith, a small riverside village mainly inhabited by the Khmu ethnic minority. Life here is simple and closely tied to nature, with families primarily sustained by rice and vegetable farming. Some households continue the traditional craft of blacksmithing, producing essential tools such as knives, hoes, and spades. Here, if available, the village blacksmith will demonstrate his time-honored methods and skills.

Before returning on board, we also spent some time connecting with local students and enjoying their lively skill performance.

Continuing our downstream journey, we reach our overnight mooring spot. We dock on a captivating sandbank, where a welcome cocktail precedes a delightful dinner against the backdrop of awe-inspiring natural beauty. 

Evening

After dinner, feel free to join us in the lounge for a cosy screening of “Chiang” (Laotian for “elephant”). This cinematic gem, filmed in this very region in 1927 and produced by the visionary behind the first King Kong movie, sets the mood for our next day’s adventure.

Morning

We extend a warm invitation for you to join our daily yoga class on the terrace deck, where the breathtaking scenery of the Mekong River provides a picturesque backdrop for your practice.

Our journey leads us to the charming town of Pakbeng. Along the starboard side, you will find Laos' well-preserved elephant sanctuary, a shining example of ecotourism and sustainability, showcasing a deep commitment to these magnificent creatures. 

Witnessing the elephants emerge from the lush rainforest is an extraordinary experience, offering fascinating insights into their lives. 

Afternoon

Sailing into the afternoon, another breathtaking riverine spectacle awaits as we arrive at another Ban Khok Aek. Here, three distinct ethnic groups: Hmong, Lao Loum, and Khmu, coexist almost literally under one roof. Each group possesses its own unique history, traditions, ways of life, family dynamics, and housing styles.

Venture into the village to a family home where representatives from each ethnic group will showcase and explain their differences and characteristics in day-to-day life. The theory provided the day before, through our lecture, suddenly comes alive before your eyes.

Evening

As the afternoon transitions into evening, join us at the bar for snacks and a preview of the next day’s program. Before dinner, villagers grace us with a performance on the terrace deck, featuring the traditional “Kene” instrument and/or a unique dance.

After dinner, join us in the lounge for a cosy screening of “The Rocket”, a 90-minute Lao film about a boy seeking redemption in a land scarred by war.

Morning

Rise early to witness the sun's first rays on the river and, if you wish, join our daily yoga class.

Sail towards Luang Prabang through the outskirts of the Golden Triangle. Learn about its colonialism, opium trade, conflicts, and the diverse roles played by Burma, Thailand, Laos, Britain, China, and more.

Afterwards, our morning sojourn leads us to the picturesque village of Khok Luang inhabited by the Khmu people. Simplicity defines this locale, with bamboo huts elevated on stilts amidst vast rice fields.

In this serene setting, we can mingle and meet with different generations, old and young, in the village, both deeply rooted in the land, sustaining their livelihood through manual agriculture. Peel back the layers of their daily existence, observe their way of life, and engage in insightful conversations to garner a profound understanding of their unique experiences.

Afternoon

After lunch, we arrive at the Pak Ou Caves, nestled on the rocky shore of the Mekong, near the mouth of the Ou River. These limestone grottoes house around 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images, ranging from small to towering heights of up to 2 meters (7 feet). 

We will visit the lower cave, which is the most impressive and easily accessible. Following the cave visit, Heritage Line offerstwo optional choices for further exploration. 

• Adventure-seekers can opt for a kayak tour along the tranquil Nam Ou River, immersing themselves in the peaceful flow and breathtaking mountainous scenery. 
• Alternatively, you can choose a short boat ride to the nearby village of Ban Muang Keo, where you'll witness the local artistry of traditional silk weaving.

After the excursion, we set our course towards Luang Prabang, one of the most enchanting towns in Southeast Asia. 

Evening

Continuing our course, we head to Luang Prabang, one of Southeast Asia's most enchanting towns. Arriving in the early evening, there's time for a stroll through downtown Luang Prabang after dinner. Immerse yourself in the town's therapeutic aura, slowing down to the depths of your soul.

Morning

Start your day by embracing the tranquil beauty of a sunrise and prepare to revitalize your mind and body with our daily yoga class on the terrace deck, situated right next to one of Laos' most iconic temples.

After breakfast, embark on a captivating walking tour through the charming streets of Luang Prabang. 

Led by our experienced guide, we will explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, particularly the old town and its picturesque peninsula where the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers meet. 

Let's admire the unique architecture that adorns Luang Prabang's streets and immerse ourselves in captivating stories about the houses and landmarks we encounter. 

As we stroll along the winding paths, adorned with antique structures and majestic mango trees, take a moment to pause and refresh. 

Afternoon

Return to the ship for lunch and refreshment. The afternoon explores Luang Prabang’s cultural heritage, visiting the former Royal Palace transformed into the National Museum. Admire local art and historical treasures once owned by the Lao royal family.

After the museum, explore the city center at your own pace or relax in one of the street cafés before joining an insightful lecture on Lao life by a regional professor onboard.

Evening

As evening approaches, a thoughtfully curated dining experience awaits - An invitation to embrace Luang Prabang’s serene tempo, wherever the night may lead. Afterward, you may continue exploring the town, including a visit to the vibrant Night Market.

Morning

Experience the spiritual Buddhist tradition of the morning alms round, known as Tak Bat in Lao, by waking up before dawn to witness hundreds of saffron-robed monks in a procession, as the town is bathed in warm golden tones. 

After bidding farewell to Luang Prabang, our cruise continues downstream along the Mekong River.

Our first stop takes us to an innovative and socially responsible Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm. Explore and learn about the production of various dairy products such as cheeses, ice cream, and yogurt, which have gained popularity in recent years. 

Afternoon & Evening

Next, we visit the breathtaking Kuang Si waterfalls, known for their cascading turquoise waters. It's an opportunity to leisurely hike through the park and marvel at the creative wonders of Mother Nature.

As we return to the vessel, the cruise proceeds towards Laos' renowned Xayaburi Hydroelectric Dam, the country's first major dam and hydroelectric power plant. 

Before reaching the dam, we offer an intriguing lecture on the role of energy production in Laos' economy and how the country is poised to become the "battery" of Southeast Asia. 

After dinner, we set up our lounge as a cinema and screened another classic movie for your enjoyment.

Morning

Guests will have the opportunity to witness the imposing Xayaburi Hydroelectric Dam, standing tall at an impressive height of 32.6 meters (107 feet). The ship will navigate this significant elevation with the assistance of a massive water gate.

During the morning sailing, we offer two onboard activities for your enjoyment. Our guide will present a lecture on the history of Lao royalty, with a particular focus on King Anouvong, after whom this vessel is named. 

Additionally, we provide another cooking class, allowing you to learn and replicate a different Lao-Thai dish easily in your own home.

Afternoon

Arrive at Don Saynhan Village, we take a local "Tuk Tuk" to venture inland and visit the renowned Khao Cave.

Traveling through the lush jungle-like environment and abundant vegetation in a local mode of transportation is an adventure in itself. The Khao Cave has been home to a large population of bats for generations and serves as a vital source of potent fertilizer for the village. Inside the cave, you can observe fascinating stalagmites and stalactites.

Evening

The ship remains moored here overnight. Join us on the deck for some prelude snacks and an outlook for the next day provided by our guide. Enjoy the evening ambiance or opt for an after-dinner reflexology session to ensure a restful slumber.

Morning

On our final full day of this expedition, we navigate to the charming village of Pha Liep, where the landscape is adorned with breathtaking limestone mountains that create a magnificent and picturesque backdrop.

The local inhabitants of this region, known as the ethnic Lao Loum, primarily rely on agriculture for their livelihood. We have the opportunity to explore two other intriguing aspects of ethnic Lao Loum. 

• The first is crafting traditional longtail boats, which serve as the primary mode of transportation in Laos, and involve intricate craftsmanship.
• The second "business" is owning a local whiskey distillery. Lao whiskey holds a special place in the nation's culture, and it's a staple found in every Laotian household. 

Afternoon & Evening

We set sail once again, gracefully gliding along the gentle currents of the Mekong. Our destination is a remarkably secluded sandbar, where we will moor for the night, ending our journey on a high note. 

To celebrate the cherished memories we've gathered along the Mekong, we invite you to a cocktail reception, where we can toast to our experiences. Later, under the enchanting Laotian sky, we will indulge in a delightful farewell dinner.

Morning

Savor the final sunrise of your journey as you engage in a revitalizing morning Yoga session on the outdoor deck. 

Today, weather permitting, we have arranged breakfast on the terrace deck, allowing you to relish the last few hours of sailing while enjoying the scenic views until we arrive at Pak Lay. 

We kindly request that you prepare your luggage and be ready for check-out by 9:00. Minivans will be available to transfer you to Vientiane, and you can expect to reach the city at approximately 12:30.